Let’s walk through the planning process
What type of matters do we handle?
Our firm specializes in all aspects of foundational estate planning with a focus on revocable living trusts (prior to death) and estate administration (after death).
Is all estate planning the same?
Absolutely not. As we grow, our family and our assets change. Every estate plan is unique. To make sure that all of your wishes are carried out while minimizing any potential tax liability, it is necessary to complete a customized estate plan that fits your life.
Can’t I just purchase an estate plan online?
In recent history people have used online resources to prepare their estate plan for a small fee. These online companies certainly prepare the documents, but they provide very little service. They fail to tell you the pitfalls and potential consequences that come along with drafting your estate plan. Unfortunately, if you proceed with an online company, you may not fully understand the potential issues associated with the end product until after there has been a death in the family. Without having a practiced attorney review and customize your estate plan, it can prove to be very costly in time and court costs to your loved ones.
Establishing your estate plan through our firm will allow you and your family to rest easy knowing that your wishes will be carried out with little to no court involvement.
How do I create an estate plan?
After reaching out to our firm, we will set up a brief introductory call to get a better understanding of what your goals are and the type of planning that with help achieve those goals. After our initial call, we will send you a questionnaire to fill out so we can get a better picture of your life and assets. Once we have had a chance to review your questionnaire, we will have a more detailed call to discuss the terms of your estate plan. We will then compose and send you a draft of your estate plan. After your review, we will discuss any questions or changes you may have. We will make any necessary changes and then schedule a final meeting to sign the documents. In addition to estate planning documents, we will prepare the deed to transfer your primary residence into the trust and give you step-by-step instructions to transfer your other assets into the name of the trust.
After our initial conversation, how long does it take to finalize my estate plan?
This depends entirely on your circumstances. We can draft and finalize an estate plan as quickly as you need — even within a week. Under normal circumstances an estate plan is generally drafted, reviewed by the client, and executed within a few weeks, but each process is unique. We are happy to work within whatever time frame you need.
How much does an estate plan cost?
The Law Offices of Christopher J. Cook drafts estate plans on a flat fee basis. We have found that charging a flat fee puts both parties at ease and allows for a free flow of communication. This provides you with a deeper understanding of the process and documents you are executing. We prefer transparency in the billing process so you, the client, are not surprised by any additional fees. Fees vary based on the client’s situation (e.g., married or unmarried) or the documents needed (e.g., revocable trust plan or a simple will plan), so please contact our office for the estate plan cost in your situation.
How often should my estate plan be reviewed?
Life happens! Generally, we recommend that you review your estate plan annually. Additionally, any time there is a life event, you should review your estate plan.
Some life events include:
Getting married
Having a child
Having another child
Getting a job and starting retirement
Purchasing a home
Purchasing an investment property
Retiring
I have reviewed my estate plan and I want to make changes; how do I do that?
Give us a call! After a brief conversation, we will be able to determine the complexity of your amendment and we can provide the next steps to completing the changes. We will walk you through the process.
How do I make an appointment?
Please call 415-234-8937 or email us at chris@cjcooklaw.com to set up a time to meet at our office in Novato or to set up a conference call.